Taiwan Blog: Day 7 ~ Pu-Li Paper Mill, Sun Moon Lake

Pu-Li Paper Mill:

We learned the process for making paper which was invented by the Chinese about 2000 years ago. Pulp used to make paper at this mill is derived from various sources including bamboo, bamboo bark, and even elephant dung. The pulp is similar in texture to what you would feel if you wet a Kleenex and rolled it into a loose ball. After a tour of the facility we were given instructions on how to make our own paper. We also made a fan but that was one arts and craft project that none of us seemed to get the hang of. Fortunately the staff at Pu-Li was very patient and they helped us glue our fan to the sticks so the fans actually worked.

First we chose a template to print onto the paper.

I think I got carried away with the ink.

A sifter is placed in the water containing pulp and swished around a little so that pulp gets on it. The water is gently squeezed out and then color is added by placing the sifter back in colored water. After creating our projects the sifters were piled on top of each other and the guys took turns turning the crank to squeeze as much water out as possible. By this time you are left with something that resembles wet newspaper which is then put on a long drying table.

Don't let the sweater fool you, this fan is going to get used a lot!

Dr. Peng added our name in Chinese

Here we are showing off our creations

Lunch at McDonalds:

Garbage is separated to maximize recycling efforts.

Sun Moon Lake:

Sun Moon Lake is one of two "must see" destinations for people visiting Taiwan. although I would have probably been more impressed if I didn't already live in the great lake state but regardless, it is a beautiful lake surrounded by mountains. Sun Moon Lake gets its name from the fact that looking from the sky one part looks like a sun and another part looks like a moon. No one is allowed to swim in the lake except once a year when they hold a race called the Swimming Carnival of Sun Moon Lake. Tens of thousands of people participate in crossing the lake in the 3 km. race which is held around the Mid-Autumn Festival. Politicians participate, even the president.